Why Parawood is the Best Wood Species for Table Legs
Introduction
The choice of wood for furniture, especially table legs, is a crucial decision. The right selection can add durability, style, and functionality to your table. In this article, we will discuss why parawood has become an increasingly popular choice for table legs and why it's considered the best option available.
What is Parawood?
Origin and characteristics
Parawood, also known as rubberwood or Hevea brasiliensis, is a tropical hardwood native to Brazil but primarily harvested in Southeast Asia. It's derived from the rubber tree, which is known for its latex production. Once the tree reaches the end of its latex-producing years, it's then harvested for its lumber. Parawood is light in color, has a straight grain pattern, and is relatively dense.
See full article on what parawood is:
https://www.design59furniture.com/blogs/buying-guides/what-is-parawood
Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness
One of the primary reasons parawood is considered the best choice for table legs is its sustainability. Since parawood is harvested from rubber trees that have completed their latex-producing cycle, it promotes efficient use of natural resources. Additionally, the rubber tree plantation industry promotes reforestation efforts, ensuring that new trees are planted to replace the harvested ones.
Strength and Durability
Parawood is known for its impressive strength and durability. It possesses a density and hardness similar to that of oak and maple, making it an excellent choice for furniture construction. This attribute ensures that your table legs can withstand the test of time and daily use, providing you with long-lasting support.
Aesthetic Appeal
Natural appearance
Parawood boasts a beautiful, natural appearance that blends well with various interior design styles. Its light, warm color and straight grain pattern add an elegant touch to table legs and other furniture pieces.
Versatility in design
Parawood's versatility in design allows it to be shaped into various styles, from farmhouse table legs to modern table legs. This flexibility makes it an ideal choice for table legs, as you can create a unique, custom look to complement your overall décor.
Ease of Working
Machining and shaping
Parawood is easy to work with, as it machines and shapes well without splitting or chipping. This characteristic makes it an excellent choice for intricate table leg designs and ensures a smooth, clean finish.
Finishing
Parawood takes stains and finishes exceptionally well, allowing you to customize the appearance of your table legs to suit your preferences. It can also be painted or varnished, providing you with even more design options.'
Cost-Effectiveness
In comparison to other hardwoods, parawood is relatively inexpensive. This cost-effectiveness makes it an attractive option for table legs, providing a high-quality material without breaking the bank.
Moisture Resistance
Parawood is naturally resistant to moisture, making it less prone to warping or swelling. This characteristic ensures the longevity of your table legs, even in humid or damp environments. This moisture resistance also makes parawood an ideal choice for outdoor furniture.
Stability
Another notable feature of parawood is its dimensional stability. It resists shrinkage and expansion due to changes in temperature or humidity better than many other wood species. This stability ensures your table legs remain secure and stable, providing consistent support for your table. This is especially important for turned table legs which are otherwise prone to splitting.
Comparison with Other Wood Species
Oak
While oak is a popular choice for furniture due to its strength and durability, it is more expensive than parawood. Additionally, oak can be challenging to work with and may require more maintenance.
Maple
Maple is another hardwood option, but it tends to be less sustainable than parawood. While it offers similar strength and durability, it is often more expensive and less moisture-resistant.
Pine
Pine is an affordable, softwood alternative to rubberwood. However, it is less durable and more prone to dents and scratches. It also lacks the moisture resistance and dimensional stability of parawood.
See full blog article on rubberwood vs pine:
https://www.design59furniture.com/blogs/buying-guides/rubberwood-vs-pine
Common Uses of Parawood
Aside from table legs, parawood is used for a variety of furniture pieces, including chairs, cabinets, and bed frames. It is also commonly used for flooring, paneling, and other architectural applications due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Maintenance and Care
Parawood requires minimal maintenance and care. To keep your parawood table legs looking their best, simply dust them regularly and clean them with a damp cloth when necessary. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the wood's surface.
Environmental Impact
Choosing parawood for your table legs not only provides you with a durable and attractive option, but it also helps reduce your environmental impact. By selecting a sustainable and eco-friendly material, you are contributing to responsible forestry practices and the preservation of our planet's natural resources.
Conclusion
In conclusion, parawood is an excellent choice for table legs due to its sustainability, strength, durability, aesthetic appeal, ease of working, cost-effectiveness, moisture resistance, and stability. Its versatility in design and low-maintenance requirements make it a smart option for homeowners seeking a long-lasting and attractive solution for their furniture needs. Design 59 offers a wide variety of parawood table legs and table bases on this website for your project needs.
FAQs
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Is parawood the same as rubberwood?
Yes, parawood is also known as rubberwood, as it comes from the same tree species, Hevea brasiliensis.
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Can parawood be used for outdoor furniture?
Due to its moisture resistance, parawood can be a suitable choice for outdoor furniture. However, it is essential to apply a protective finish to help safeguard the wood against the elements.
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How can I determine if my table legs are made from parawood?
Parawood has a light, warm color and a straight grain pattern. If you are unsure about the type of wood used in your table legs, consult the manufacturer or seek advice from a professional.
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Do parawood table legs require special care?
Parawood table legs require minimal care. Regular dusting and occasional cleaning with a damp cloth should suffice to maintain their appearance and condition.
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Are there any disadvantages to using parawood for table legs?
Some individuals may have concerns about the potential allergens associated with latex. However, the processing of parawood removes the vast majority of latex proteins, making it unlikely to cause an allergic reaction.